Wonders of the Caucasus - Armenia and Georgia in 10 Days
A 10-day express journey condensing the magic of Armenia and Georgia: from Garni Temple and Geghard Monastery to Gergeti Church in Kazbegi, the cave city of Vardzia and the enchanting Lake Sevan.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Yerevan
Transfer from Zvartnots airport to the hotel in Yerevan with guide assistance.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 2: Yerevan - Garni - Geghard
City tour of Yerevan: Republic Square, Cascade complex and views of Mount Ararat. Visit to the Armenian Genocide Museum and Memorial. In the afternoon, excursion to the Hellenistic Temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery, a World Heritage Site, with its churches carved into the rock.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 3: Northern Armenia - Crossing to Georgia
Route north visiting Saghmosavank Monastery at the edge of the Kasagh River canyon. Continue to Sanahin and Haghpat monasteries, World Heritage Sites. Border crossing at Sadakhlo into Georgia.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 4: Tbilisi - Guided Tour
Tour of Rustaveli Avenue, Metekhi Square, cable car ride to Narikala Fortress, Abanotubani district with its sulfur baths and Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 5: Kazbegi and the Military Highway
Excursion along the Georgian Military Highway. Visit to Ananuri Fortress by Zhinvali reservoir. Ascent to Gergeti Trinity Church at 2,170 meters, with views of Mount Kazbegi.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 6: Mtskheta - Gori - Uplistsikhe - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe
Visit to Mtskheta: Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, World Heritage Sites. Stalin Museum in Gori and rock city of Uplistsikhe. Walk through Borjomi park to taste its mineral waters. Arrival in Akhaltsikhe and Rabati fortress.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 7: Vardzia - Crossing to Armenia - Gyumri
Visit to the impressive 12th-century rock-carved monastery city of Vardzia, with its medieval frescoes of Queen Tamar. Border crossing at Bavra into Armenia and transfer to Gyumri.
Accommodation: 21 Rooms Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 8: Gyumri - Dilijan - Lake Sevan - Yerevan
Walk through Gyumri, cultural capital of Armenia, with its 19th-century volcanic tuff architecture. Visit to the old town of Dilijan, the "Little Switzerland." Contemplation of Lake Sevan, the highland "sea." Transfer to Yerevan.
Accommodation: Hotel Ani Plaza ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Day 9: Departure
Transfer to Zvartnots airport for your return flight.
Discover the "Wonders of the Caucasus" on an express 10-day journey that condenses the magic of two countries into an unforgettable experience. This itinerary is meticulously designed for travelers seeking a solid and exciting introduction to the region, visiting key points without major detours, optimizing each day to the fullest.
Armenia: The Land of Stones
We will begin exploring the treasures of Armenia. From the capital Yerevan, we will visit the "Armenian Vatican" in Echmiadzin and the ruins of Zvartnots Cathedral. We will marvel at the pagan temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery. The route north will take us through Lake Sevan and the forests of Dilijan, showcasing the natural diversity of this small country.
Georgia: Mountains and Legends
We will quickly cross north to discover Georgia, where we will focus on the country's central axis. We will explore the charms of Tbilisi and the sanctity of Mtskheta. We will climb the Georgian Military Highway towards the Kazbegi region to enjoy iconic views of the mountain and the Trinity Church.
The trip includes a strategic incursion to southwest Georgia to visit Borjomi, famous for its healing mineral waters, and the impressive Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe. Despite its shorter duration, this tour does not give up the spectacularity of the cave city of Vardzia before returning to Armenia. It is the ideal option for a deep and exciting first contact with the South Caucasus.
Included
- Accommodation: 8 nights in selected 4-star hotels
- Meal plan: Bed and breakfast
- Transportation: Private vehicle with air conditioning and fuel
- Guide: Professional English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Logistics: Staff expenses (guide and driver)
- Water: 1 bottle per person/day
- Taxes: Local taxes included
- Entrances: Access to all monuments according to itinerary
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
- Alcoholic beverages and tips
- Personal expenses